Spooky Recruiting Stories

HR Question

What happens when your candidate pipeline turns into a haunted house of hiring horrors?

HR Answer

Hiring the right talent for your team can be a challenge, even under the best of circumstances. But as many recruiters know, sometimes the circumstances are downright terrifying.

Whether you’re hiring for entry-level roles or executive positions, the world of talent acquisition is full of surprising and strange things. In the spirit of the spooky season, we’re pulling back the cobwebs to share some of the eeriest, most unforgettable recruiting tales from our team and some learnings from them. So, grab your flashlight and read on – if you dare…

The Phantom Employee

On the day a newly hired candidate was supposed to start their job, a mysterious imposter appeared instead, masquerading as the person who had been interviewed. The eerie switch left everyone in the office spooked and questioning the true identity of their new colleague.

Lesson for employers: Always verify identity during onboarding. A quick check of IDs and paperwork can prevent unsettling surprises.

Nightmare Interview

Imagine a nightmare interview scenario where the candidate, instead of being professionally dressed and seated at a desk, is lying in bed with their pajamas on and sporting a serious case of bed head. The interviewer, taken aback, tries to maintain composure as the candidate casually answers questions while snuggled under the covers. The room is dimly lit, adding to the surreal and unprofessional atmosphere.

Lesson for employers: Virtual interviews require clear expectations. Communicate dress codes and professionalism upfront to avoid awkward encounters.

The Degree of Deception

We were thrilled with our candidate. They had everything: a great resume, glowing interview performances, and a confident acceptance of our offer. The hiring manager was already planning their onboarding. Then came the whisper: A current employee, who was attending the same university, casually mentioned, “I don’t think they’re getting that degree.” When going to verify the degree, the records weren’t updated. The candidate was supposed to graduate soon, so technically, the degree wasn’t conferred yet. Still, the comment lingered like a chill in the air. Before we could clarify, the candidate withdrew—vanished without explanation.

Lesson for employers: Always confirm credentials early in the process. Transparency prevents last-minute surprises and protects your organization’s integrity.

The Jingle That Haunted the Interview

It was a phone interview like any other—until the candidate started singing a company’s old commercial jingle. Not just a line or two—the whole thing. Then they described the ad in vivid detail. Oddly charming? Yes. Memorable? Absolutely.

Lesson for employers: Candidates who show personality can stand out—but professionalism matters. Encourage creativity, but keep interviews focused on skills and experience.

The Interview That Sent Shivers Down Our Spines

During a group interview, one candidate suddenly collapsed. Emergency services were called, and thankfully, the candidate recovered and returned with grace. His resilience impressed us so much that we moved him forward in the process.

Lesson for employers: Unexpected moments reveal character. Approach emergencies with empathy and professionalism—sometimes, challenges highlight a candidate’s true strengths. 

The Phantom Applicant

Over the course of ten years, one candidate applied for 198 jobs with our organization. He scheduled interviews, passed screenings—and then vanished every time, only to show up when another job was posted and do the same thing.

Lesson for employers: Persistence doesn’t always equal readiness. Keep processes human and expectations flexible. And remember, even ghosts have stories.

The Executive with a Skeleton in the Search Bar

A polished candidate for a C-suite role looked perfect—until a quick search revealed embezzlement charges and court records.

Lesson for employers: Due diligence is non-negotiable for leadership roles. A thorough background check can save your organization from costly mistakes.

The Interview That Time Forgot

A candidate replied to an interview invite—three years late. The role was filled, the posting archived, but their enthusiasm was fresh.

Lesson for employers: Ghosting goes both ways. Keep records clean and postings updated. And never underestimate the persistence of a determined candidate.

The Day the Lobby Turned into a Job Fair

Expecting a 50% no-show rate, a recruiter overbooked a group interview. Every candidate showed up. Chaos ensued—but quick thinking, flexibility, and a few non-typical interviewers saved the day. Lesson for employers: Always plan for the unexpected. Flexibility and humor can turn a logistical nightmare into a positive candidate experience.

The Gala That Crashed the Interview

A candidate arrived in a full-length ball gown for a mid-level operations interview. Her confidence was undeniable—but expectations were scrambled.

Lesson for employers: Clearly communicate dress code expectations to candidates. Confidence is great, but alignment on standards prevents confusion and helps everyone put their best foot forward.

The Moral of the (Ghost) Story?

If these tales have taught us anything, it’s that recruiting isn’t for the faint of heart. Whether you’re dodging phantom candidates, decoding cryptic resumes, or surviving the haunted halls of hiring horror, one thing’s for sure: recruiters have some of the best stories in the business. So, the next time your interviewee vanishes into thin air or your job post attracts a werewolf with a marketing degree, just remember—you’re not alone. Happy haunting and may your next hire be more treat than trick!

Thank you to our Talent Acquisition Team Ghostwriters, Lisa Johnson, Tracy Walker, Anne England, and  Ashly Avery, for sharing their memorable experiences.

A successful recruitment process is much more than just posting an ad. Are you overwhelmed with your recruiting? Our on-demand recruitment services and flexible pricing options can give you the support you need, no matter where you are in the process. Visit our Outsourced Recruitment page to learn more, or contact us today!